January 24, 2024 NewsOrient
By Kelechi Samuel Newsbreak

The Federal High Court has banned former Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State from embarking on any journey outside the Court’s jurisdiction following the commencement of the trial on the suit by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, accusing him of stealing N4billion while serving as Anambra State Governor.

The trial commenced two years after Obiano was arrested and detained while trying to leave Nigeria just hours after he handed over power to his successor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo.

The suit against Obiano constitutes a nine-count charge of stealing N4billion from the coffers of the state while in power.

When the charges were read to him, former Governor Obiano pleaded not guilty.

The court, through Justice Inyang Ekwo, however granted him bail notwithstanding objections by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) through its lawyer, Sylvanus Tahir (SAN).

Justice Ekwo also ordered EFCC to deposit Willie Obiano’s travel documents at the Court and notify Nigerian Immigration Service of the development.

The matter was adjourned to March 4, 2024.

Photo Credit: Arise News Television

~ NewsOrient